Despite previous struggles, Tyler Wade is expected to have a role with the New York Yankees in 2020. He’s floated up and down between the MLB and AAA over the last three seasons, but may finally have an extended chance in the MLB.
Wade’s first two seasons in the MLB were rough, but last season was a bit better. He hit .155 and .167 in 2017 and 2018 respectively but hit .245 in 2019. Now keep in mind, all three seasons are with limited sample sizes. He’s had no more than 94 at-bats in a season, and that was in 2019.
Wade is a scrappy fielder and a great baserunner because of his speed. He’s one of the fastest players in all of baseball and can steal a bag for you any day of the week. His speed also makes his defensive range uncomparable.
2020 Expectations:
Wade will be used as the utility man in 2020.
With injuries to Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton in the outfield and Didi Gregorius no longer on the team, this could create a roster spot and playing time for the 25-year-old.
But, the Yankees are going to need a bit more out of him on offense. His average is trending in the right direction, and it needs to continue to stay that way. He will typically bat at the bottom of the order, but if he gets hot, he could be a potential leadoff option if DJ LeMahieu needs a day off.
The team will need him to continue to be a great defender and baserunner. Even on days when he doesn’t start, he is an excellent pinch-runner option.
The Yankees will look to get a good season out of Tyler Wade as he’s preparing for extended time on the big-league roster.